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Home ยป Utah’s Pardon Process

Utah’s Pardon Process


The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole has authority to grant a pardon or commutation of a criminal conviction. This Board’s authority is used rarely and only in appropriate circumstances. For individuals who qualify and are approved for a pardon, the effect can be life-changing.

The process of applying for a pardon is long and can involve a variety of potential roadblocks. Having an experienced attorney to guide you through the process can help to give you the best chance of success.

Governor’s Pardon in Utah?

Unlike many other states, Utah’s constitution does not vest the pardon authority directly with the governor. Instead, Utah’s constitution formally establishes a Board of Pardons and Parole. Members of the Board are nominated by the governor and confirmed by the Senate. But once appointment to the Board is completed, the members of the Board act independently.

Pardon v. Commutation

The Board of Pardons has authority to either pardon or commute a criminal conviction. Under current Utah law, a pardon can have the same effect as an expungement — meaning that the records of the courts, prosecutors, and police are sealed. More significant for many. record of the conviction no longer appears on official BCI criminal history report.

If the Board chooses to grant a commutation rather than a full pardon, the record of the conviction can be modified to show a lower level of offense. Even a commutation of a conviction can help in restoring rights and re-opening opportunities.


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For the People – For Attorneys

Attorney Protect Rights of the People

Knowing what you are facing in a Utah criminal prosecution is critical in choosing the right attorney to defend your rights. Articles in this section provide imformation about Utah's criminal justice system that each person should know. Click to learn more.

Information for Utah Criminal Defense Attorneys

The "For Attorneys" section provides tips and articles from the Canyons team intended to assist Utah defense attorneys improve their knowledge base and hone the skills needed to successfully represent clients facing criminal prosecution. These materials must be considered in context of relevant constitutional provisions, procedural rules, case law, and statutes. Reliance on these materials by individuals without the assistance of an experienced attorney is not recommended.

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    Victories in Utah Criminal Defense Cases

    Client charged with felony aggravated assault for using broken bottle as a weapon. Defense case focused on self-defense, resulting in not guilty verdict by the jury at trial.

    Client charged with felony insurance fraud after claiming work-related injury prevented him from returning to work. Insurance investigators obtained video that included client kicking soccer ball in his yard. Government allegations of fraud were rebutted by medical records and prior administrative adjudications. Client’s job required heavy lifting. The claimed injury did not prevent him from kicking a ball but did prevent him from lifting. Prosecutor conceded error and voluntarily dismissed the case.

    Client faced first-degree felony charges for selling drugs to undercover police officer. Mitigating evidence gathered by defense relating to client’s youth, family support, treatment options, and lack of prior history was pivotal in convincing prosecutor to allow an abeyance agreement to a single misdemeanor count. Case was ultimately dismissed.

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    Layton, UT 84041

    560 South 300 East, Suite 200
    Salt Lake City, UT 84111

    801-449-1409

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